Leo (originally known as "Clever") is a young male Border Collie between 1-2 years old. His teeth are perfectly white, which makes us think he’s closer to one than two, and he’s still gangly, with not much muscle yet. But then, he weighs only 38 pounds when he should weigh around 45. Maybe that’s why he’s such a great eater! He’s so cute when he eats because he takes little breaks to check in with his human. That’s why we nick-named him Leo--after Leo the Lionhearted. His heart is so big that he'd rather snuggle with his humans than eat.
In his first week with us, he’s encountered the 14 year old neighbor boy, horses, the neighbor’s very large, fierce looking german shorthaired pointer, cars, a cat and an enormous Wisconsin puff ball. We really hooted when he gave the puff ball the ‘collie eye’ and couldn't help snapping his picture just when he was looking so silly.
Amazingly, this little guy takes everything in stride. He trotted up to the neighbor boy and sat next to him politely waiting to be petted. He was friendly with the big Pointer and did not take offence at his gruffness. He shied away from the horses initially, for which he got lots of praise. Now he pricks up his ears and just looks, that’s all. When cars pass, he’s asked to sit by the side of the road (with some enticing treats of course!) and he obliges with enthusiasm. Even the cat meeting went well. He was interested but there was no barking or lunging and he could be called away easily.
Leo is housebroken. He sleeps quietly at night in a crate and uses it during the day when his humans can't keep a close eye on him. After a little bit of whining, he settles right down. He’s also a very quick learner. With little effort on our part he’s learned “leave it,” “wait” at the door, “sit,” “down,” and we’re working on “stay.” He loves all kinds of toys but is not a ‘de-stuffer’ of plush toys. He hasn't chewed anything other than rawhides or appropriate dog toys. When he was at the Vet to be chipped, he was not sensitive when examined and the Vet pronounced him physically sound.
Leo lives with two humans and two resident Border collies in south central Wisconsin. Although he'd like to play non-stop, he reads his foster brothers’ signals and backs off when they ask him to. And to top it all off, he’s adorable! This delightful mix of cautious curiosity and confident playfulness will be a wonderful new family member to some very lucky people, that’s for sure!
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